Hands Of Fate

Memory Lane

Ch 2.

The bus ride to the town of my nightmares was a journey through time. Each mile closer to my destination, the past clawed its way back into my thoughts. Six years—a lifetime and a moment all at once. I was a new person now, stronger, more resilient. Yet, the shadows of that day lingered, threatening to pull me back into the darkness.

I coached myself, rehearsing the words I would use to shield myself from the pain. "I will fight for myself this time," I whispered, a silent vow to the reflection in the window. The anxiety was a tight knot in my chest, a constant reminder of the battle ahead.

Why was I doing this? The question haunted me, but the answer was simple—I missed my parents. Despite the hurt, the love remained, a tether that not even time could sever.

As the bus trundled on, I lost myself in memories of my 18th birthday. The day that began with joy and ended in terror. I remembered the perfect breakfast my dad had made, the happy birthday wishes, the plans for a magical night under the stars. It was supposed to be the start of my future—college, a job, maybe love.

I wasn't a beauty queen, just an ordinary girl with long dark hair, dark blue eyes, and a slim figure. At barely 5'2", I wasn't imposing, but I had caught the eye of a boy or two. Yet, my heart was heavy with worry for my parents, who assured me they'd be fine without me.

The day unfolded with laughter and excitement. My friends and I spent hours at the mall, pampering ourselves for the evening's celebration. The party was set in our backyard, a stone's throw from the woods, where a dreamily lit path led to a clearing. Rugs and mats were laid out, the stage for a night of dancing and stargazing.

It was supposed to be a night of enchantment. But as the stars blinked awake above us, the magic shattered, leaving behind a trail of broken dreams and unanswered questions.

Now, as the bus neared the town, I braced myself for the confrontation with my past. I was not the same scared girl anymore. I had grown, changed, and found strength I never knew I had. This visit would not be a surrender to the past but a testament to the person I had become.

The bus slowed to a stop, and I took a deep breath. It was time to face the ghosts of that fateful night and reclaim the life that was nearly stolen from me. It was time to celebrate not just my parents' anniversary but my own rebirth.

*****
Hi, it's me again. Thanks for reading Ch. 2
Thank you so much for the support <3

R.